Federal Court Fast-Tracks Isaac Hayes Estate Hearing Over Trump's Unlicensed Music Use
The Isaac Hayes Estate has secured an emergency federal court hearing against Donald Trump over unauthorized music usage at campaign events. The hearing is scheduled for September 3 at the Northern District of Georgia Federal Court in Atlanta.
Isaac Hayes wearing glasses and sunglasses
The lawsuit centers on Trump's alleged 134 unauthorized uses of Hayes' song "Hold On, I'm Coming" at rallies. The estate previously demanded a $3 million licensing fee by August 16, after which they proceeded with legal action. The lawsuit names multiple co-defendants, including the NRA, Turning Point USA, and the RNC.
Isaac Hayes III clarified that while Trump may have initially been protected by ASCAP or BMI licenses, the estate opted out of these licenses when Trump began using the song at campaign rallies. Each unauthorized play could result in a $150,000 fine.
In a related development, the Trump campaign faces criticism from Foo Fighters for using their song "My Hero" without permission at a recent rally featuring Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s endorsement. The band's representatives stated they would not have granted permission if asked and plan to donate any received royalties to Kamala Harris' campaign.
Classical columns with historic building backdrop
The case highlights ongoing tensions between musicians and political campaigns over unauthorized music usage, with particular focus on licensing agreements and copyright protections.
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